Introduction: A Seismic Shift in the NBA Landscape

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, the Milwaukee Bucks have made the unprecedented decision to waive Damian Lillard, one of the NBA’s premier point guards, to facilitate the acquisition of Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers. This blockbuster transaction, reported by reputable sources like Bleacher Report and ESPN, marks a pivotal moment for both the Bucks and Lillard, affectionately known as Dame by fans. With Damian Lillard’s contract being stretched to accommodate this trade, and questions swirling around Giannis Antetokounmpo’s trade rumors and dissatisfaction, the NBA is buzzing with speculation about what’s next for all parties involved.

This comprehensive blog post delves into the details of Damian Lillard’s waived status, explores Myles Turner’s contract and his fit with the Bucks, analyzes Damian Lillard’s stats and injury history, and examines the broader implications for the Bucks’ depth chart and the Pacers news cycle. We’ll also address the reported unrest from Giannis Antetokounmpo and provide a clear picture of this transformative moment in NBA news.


The Bombshell: Damian Lillard Waived by the Bucks

On July 1, 2025, Bleacher Report broke the news that the Milwaukee Bucks were waiving Damian Lillard, a decision that stunned fans and analysts alike. According to insider Shams Charania, the Bucks made this move to clear cap space for the acquisition of Myles Turner, a versatile center known for his rim protection and three-point shooting. The decision to waive Lillard, who is recovering from a Dame Lillard injury—a ruptured Achilles—has sparked intense debate about the Bucks’ long-term strategy and their commitment to contending for a championship.

The Damian Lillard contract, valued at $113 million over the next five years, will be stretched to mitigate the financial impact on the Bucks’ salary cap. This financial maneuver allows the Bucks to absorb Myles Turner’s contract, which is more cap-friendly, while reshaping their roster to address defensive vulnerabilities exposed during their first-round playoff exit in 2025. However, this bold move has not come without controversy, as reports indicate that Giannis Antetokounmpo is “not pleased” with the decision to part ways with his All-Star teammate.


Damian Lillard’s Journey with the Bucks

Damian Lillard, often referred to as Dame Lillard, joined the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster trade from the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023, a move that was heralded as a game-changer for the franchise. Paired with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Lillard was expected to form one of the NBA’s most formidable duos, combining his clutch scoring and playmaking with Giannis’s dominance in the paint. However, Lillard’s tenure in Milwaukee has been marred by challenges, including inconsistent team chemistry and, most recently, a devastating Damian Lillard injury.

Damian Lillard Stats: A Look at His Impact

Before his injury, Damian Lillard’s stats underscored his status as one of the league’s elite guards. In the 2024-25 season, before his Achilles injury sidelined him, Lillard averaged:

  • Points: 25.7 per game
  • Assists: 7.5 per game
  • Rebounds: 4.4 per game
  • Three-Point Percentage: 35.4%
  • Minutes: 35.2 per game

These numbers reflect Dame’s ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, earning him the nickname “Dame Time” for his clutch performances. His leadership and scoring prowess were critical to the Bucks’ playoff push, but the team’s early exit highlighted the need for roster adjustments, particularly in the frontcourt.

The Injury That Changed Everything

The Dame Lillard injury—a ruptured Achilles sustained during the Bucks’ first-round playoff loss—has significantly altered his trajectory. As reported by YoungNBA, Lillard’s injury is part of a troubling trend of Achilles injuries among NBA stars, including Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton. This injury, which typically requires 9-12 months of rehabilitation, has cast doubt on Lillard’s immediate future in the league. The Bucks’ decision to waive him while he rehabs this injury has sparked speculation about whether Dame will return to his All-Star form or face a prolonged recovery.


Myles Turner Trade: A New Era for the Bucks

The acquisition of Myles Turner represents a strategic pivot for the Bucks, who aim to bolster their defense and add frontcourt versatility. Turner, a former Pacers news staple, has long been a coveted asset due to his ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor with his shooting. According to ESPN, the Myles Turner trade allows the Bucks to address their defensive shortcomings while maintaining offensive flexibility.

Myles Turner’s Contract and Fit with the Bucks

Myles Turner’s contract, a two-year, $60 million deal with the Indiana Pacers, is set to expire in 2026, making him a more manageable financial commitment compared to Damian Lillard’s contract. Turner’s skill set—averaging 17.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in the 2024-25 season—complements Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playstyle. His ability to space the floor with a 39.1% three-point shooting percentage adds a new dimension to the Bucks depth chart, which has struggled with frontcourt depth in recent seasons.

The Myles Turner Bucks pairing is expected to create a formidable defensive frontcourt alongside Giannis, potentially elevating the team’s ceiling as a championship contender. However, the loss of Lillard’s playmaking and scoring leaves questions about how the Bucks will replace his offensive contributions.


Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Reaction and Trade Rumors

The decision to waive Damian Lillard has not sat well with Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ franchise cornerstone. According to Chris Haynes, Giannis is “not pleased” with the move, raising concerns about his long-term commitment to the team. Giannis’s contract, which runs through 2028, includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, giving him leverage to explore his options if the Bucks fail to contend.

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The Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors have gained traction in recent months, with fans and analysts speculating about potential destinations like Miami or Golden State. However, the Bucks’ front office remains committed to building around Giannis, and the Myles Turner trade is a clear signal of their intent to retool the roster for immediate success.


The Financial Implications: Stretching Lillard’s Contract

The Bucks’ decision to stretch Damian Lillard’s contract is a calculated financial move to manage their salary cap. By waiving Lillard and stretching the remaining $113 million over multiple seasons, the Bucks create cap flexibility to absorb Myles Turner’s contract and pursue additional roster upgrades. This strategy, while financially prudent, carries risks, as it commits the Bucks to paying Dame for years to come, even as he explores opportunities with other teams.


What’s Next for Damian Lillard?

With Damian Lillard waived, the question on every NBA fan’s mind is: Where will Dame land next? Social media platforms like X have been abuzz with speculation, with some fans suggesting a potential move to the Miami Heat, reigniting the “Dame Time to Miami” agenda. However, Lillard’s recovery from his Dame Lillard injury will be a critical factor in determining his next destination. Teams may hesitate to sign a 35-year-old guard coming off a major injury, but Lillard’s proven track record and leadership make him an attractive option for contenders.


Bucks Depth Chart: A New Look

The Bucks depth chart undergoes a significant transformation with Myles Turner joining the roster. Here’s a projected look at the Bucks’ starting lineup for the 2025-26 season:

  • Point Guard: TBD (potentially a free-agent signing or trade acquisition)
  • Shooting Guard: Khris Middleton
  • Small Forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo
  • Power Forward: Bobby Portis
  • Center: Myles Turner

The loss of Lillard creates a void at the point guard position, which the Bucks will need to address through free agency or another trade. Potential targets include veteran guards like Kyle Lowry or younger prospects like Tyus Jones, depending on the team’s budget and priorities.


Pacers News: The Ripple Effect of the Myles Turner Trade

For the Indiana Pacers, trading Myles Turner marks a shift in their roster-building philosophy. The Pacers, who have been building around Tyrese Haliburton, may use the cap space freed up by Turner’s departure to pursue additional talent. The Pacers news cycle is now focused on how the team will replace Turner’s rim protection and floor-spacing abilities, with potential targets including younger big men or draft picks.


The Bigger Picture: NBA News and the Evolving Landscape

The Damian Lillard trade and subsequent waiving are emblematic of the NBA’s ever-changing landscape. Teams are increasingly making bold moves to stay competitive, even if it means parting ways with established stars like Lillard. The Bucks’ decision reflects a broader trend of prioritizing roster flexibility and defensive versatility over star power, especially in a league where injuries can derail even the most talented teams.

The NBA news surrounding this transaction also highlights the growing influence of player empowerment. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s reported dissatisfaction could shape the Bucks’ future moves, while Lillard’s next chapter will depend on his ability to overcome his Dame Lillard injury and prove his value to a new team.


Conclusion: A New Chapter for Lillard and the Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to waive Damian Lillard and acquire Myles Turner marks a turning point for both the franchise and one of the NBA’s most beloved players. While Lillard faces an uncertain future as he rehabs his Dame Lillard injury, the Bucks are betting on Turner and Giannis Antetokounmpo to lead them back to championship contention. The Bucks news cycle will continue to evolve as the team navigates the fallout from this move, while Pacers news will focus on how Indiana retools its roster.

As the NBA prepares for the 2025-26 season, all eyes will be on Damian Lillard to see where Dame Time strikes next. Will he return to All-Star form, or will his injury mark the end of an era? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the NBA is never short on drama.


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FAQ

Q: Why was Damian Lillard waived by the Bucks?
A: The Bucks waived Damian Lillard to clear cap space for the acquisition of Myles Turner, stretching the remaining $113 million of Lillard’s contract over multiple seasons. This move was aimed at improving the team’s defensive versatility.

Q: What is the status of Damian Lillard’s injury?
A: Damian Lillard is recovering from a ruptured Achilles sustained during the 2025 playoffs. The injury typically requires 9-12 months of rehabilitation, impacting his immediate availability.

Q: How will Myles Turner fit with the Bucks?
A: Myles Turner brings rim protection and three-point shooting to the Bucks, complementing Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playstyle. His addition strengthens the Bucks depth chart in the frontcourt.

Q: Is Giannis Antetokounmpo being traded?
A: There are no confirmed reports of a Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, but his reported dissatisfaction with the Lillard move has fueled speculation. His contract runs through 2028 with a player option.

Q: Where will Damian Lillard play next?
A: Damian Lillard’s next destination is uncertain due to his Dame Lillard injury. Teams like the Miami Heat have been mentioned as potential landing spots, but his recovery will be a key factor.

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